Wednesday, July 12th was another successful event for Power of Reggae at Milk River thanks to the vibrant energy and voice of rising star, Kelissa Anbessa. We learned a lot about Kelissa’s musical upbringing and life experiences during her interview with Power of Reggae and TGM Radio on Monday, July 10th. Kelissa was born and raised in St. Andrew, Jamaica and also spent time living in Kingston. She grew up in a musical environment, which interested her from a young age as her parents were both part of the reggae band “Chakula.” Her musical journey continued when she studied in California and lived in Africa.
The only thing better than her voice, is the energy that Kelissa brings to a room and she seems to only choose to share the stage with artists who carry that same positive energy. The show opened with another powerful female, Khepe-Ra Maat Het Heru, who is another unique and passionate individual with an incredible voice. She also took time to speak and inspire about social issues affecting us as a people and the world. At this Milk River event, the energy in the room could be felt by all as Kelissa’s passion and humility resonated with the audience from the moment she stepped up to the microphone. Before singing each song, Kelissa spoke to the audience about her experiences and thoughts and all eyes were on her at all times. Kelissa sang songs from her new Spellbound album, such as “Spellbound” and “Wake Up and Live.” Her lyrics are powerful and the words could be understood clearly during this special acoustic performance.

Another highlight of the performance, was her choice to have Hector Lewis, the “Roots Percussionist,” with her on stage playing the drums alongside her. His seemingly effortless contribution of that roots reggae beat was truly the icing on the cake.
Kelissa has a presence about her that cannot be put into words, you have to see her perform live or meet her to understand. Even Chronixx, with whom she toured on the Chronology tour, was found in the audience at Milk River to support Kelissa. You can tell that her love for the music is so real and that she wants to share that joy with the world . She also took the time to meet and greet all of her fans after the show and actually listens to what they have to say, which is not something that all artists take the time to do. If you have the chance to see Kelissa perform live, please do so! She is a true artist of the mind, body, and spirit.

If all had gone as planned, Jawara McIntosh would be home in Dorchester, Massachusetts right now, legally using cannabis as part of his Rastafarian faith, enjoying the early summer with his four children, perhaps working on new music. Instead, he is in a hospital in Boston in a coma.

Seamless….

If I had to use one word to describe the Chronixx / Kelissa concert at Brooklyn Bowl on Monday night, that’s the word I would use. Luckily, I don’t have to use only one word, and for all of those who couldn’t make it, let me explain what I mean:Read More

On Wednesday, March 29th, Power of Reggae hosted an unforgettable event at Milk River restaurant and lounge in Brooklyn. This event showcased both local talent and a live performance by Jamaican legendary singer and songwriter, Horace Andy. This show was also presented by King Lion Entertainment,Black Roots Promotion and Milk River Promotions. Hosted by Micheboo of Irie Jam 93.5 FM, with music by King Lion, Black Roots, King Addies, and Supa Sound. The opening performances by Jonny Go Figure, Autarchii, and Fari Difuture caught everyone’s attention as soon as they hit the stage.

Milk River was filled with people of all ages eating dinner, having drinks, and socializing to the rhythm of the DJ at the start of the night. Later, as the artists hit the stage, Milk River patrons looked up from their meals and conversations to take in the sounds. Bodies were swaying and people were cheering within minutes. As the music continued, the audience at Milk River grew larger, with people coming in from off the street after hearing the sound from outside. By the time that Horace Andy entered the stage with the RPM band, Milk River was full of people dancing, cheering, and having a good time.

At 66 years young, Horace Andy entered the stage, causing people to get out of their seats as soon as he touched the mic. Horace Andy began his musical career as a teenager and his gift has never left him all these years later. His voice sounded as smooth and clear as it has on records for so many years, but his vibrant stage presence enhanced his sound even further, delivering a memorable performance for all. Horace Andy sang something for everyone, including big chune roots reggae song “Leave Rastman” and his infamous cover of “Ain’t No Sunshine.” No matter which song he was singing, the talented members of the RPM band did not miss a beat and were perfectly in sync to this timeless musical legend. The success of this event was largely evident by the smiles on the faces the artists and all audience members from start to finish. It was an honor to be present for this collaboration of talent and joyful spirits. If you missed it, this special event was recorded by Zion Gate Films, Up soon on www.powerofreggae.com.

Power Of Reggae would like to send a Big Congratulations to DJ Norie. He was nominated and won, for the REGGAE DJ OF THE YEAR category at the 5TH Annual Global Spin Awards. He plays on power 105.1 FM Each and every Sunday 8-10 pm. Tune in and find out why he embodies THE POWER OF REGGAE.